I opened my eyes and saw I was in my room but it didn't feel like I was sleeping on any pillow. I could also see a pair of midnight blue legs before me that ended in hooves and I could feel something warm draped across me. Moving my head I saw Moon was the one draped atop me, hugging me and I saw I was resting on Luna's lap while she was asleep yet she was sitting up using the headboard to support herself. She had a hand atop my head probably to rub my scalp as I slept to comfort me from yesterday. Looking out the window I saw it was still snowing outside.

"Your awake."

Turning to face the voice I saw it was Moon and she was looking at me with worry.

"So it seems," I said before I rubbed my nose against her's.

Moon then got off me and I pulled my head up from Luna's lap which in turn woke her up.

"Ash...are you feeling okay?" Luna asked.

"Yes...Thank you both, for staying by my side despite everything you heard and saw. I know it couldn't have been easy to see that side of me," I said.

"It would be pretty cold of me if I didn't after you stayed by my side despite my own history," Luna said.

"Yeah no kidding," Nightmare said before she sat on my lap and rested against my chest. It was then I looked down and saw scars on her upper right arm in the shape of a wolf bite and when I brushed my hand against it Moon looked at it. "Oh that, I have no idea where those came from."

"I do as does Luna," I said as I looked at Luna who showed Moon an exact replica on her arm.

"Funny, seems that this particular scar transfers to the ones you love," Luna said.

"Huh?" Moon asked.

"Well how do I say this...You know when Luna returned from the moon she battled against me and Twilight for the elements of harmony right?"

"Yes, I remember pieces of that fight," Moon said.

"Well during that fight, I was a wolf and I managed to bite...well guess we could say you and when the elements struck Luna she had that bite on her arm just like this," I said as I gestured to the scar.

"So basically you marked her as your own before you even got together...oh you naughty stud," Moon said as she booped me on the nose.

"I don't see it as that," Luna said before she rested her head on my left shoulder. "I see it as a reminder of how we first met, guess you can call it love at first bite."

At Luna's words both Moon and I laughed for a good thirty seconds before we went and bathed together then had breakfast with everyone. I also decided to tend to court while my fellow harbingers tended to raiding villages. It was a mutual decision because I wanted to try and reconnect with my subjects since my untimely demise but now I was beginning to regret not going because no one was coming in. I was board out of my skull when suddenly the doors opened and in comes Apple Bloom leading an elderly stallion into the room. He had a tan coat of fur with a white mane and tail with a brown stripe still in his mane. He wore a set of jeans and a plain white shirt with a pear on it and wrapped around the stallion's neck was a green bandanna.

"And this here is the throne room...Oh hi Uncle Ash!" Apple Bloom shouted when she saw me causing the stallion's eyes to shoot towards me.

"Miss Apple Bloom I must ask you to return at a later date when his Highness isn't busy," Kibitz said holding a parchment.

"But...," Apple Bloom started.

"C'mon little Bloom, the stallion said your uncle was busy," the elderly stallion said as he began to lead Apple Bloom away. "Apologises for our interruption."

"Nonsense," I said as I got off my throne. "You're both welcome to stay.

"Your Highness, with respect you must stay on duty," Kibitz said.

"Kibitz no one has come in here since the court opened it's doors and I've been sitting on that chair doing nothing in all that time," I said.

"Whoa really," Apple Bloom asked.

"That is not true sir you have been sitting on that throne as a shining beacon for the nation," Kibitz said.

*sigh* "Kibitz you know how much I value our talks and your advise but I'm the type of guy who prefers to be more...active in his duties, besides how can I be a beacon when no one comes in? So unless something changes I'm going to have a chat with my niece," I said before I turned to Apple Bloom. "Hey kiddo what brings you by?"

"Oh I was showing Grand Pear Pear here the castle and we were gonna finish the tour with the throne room," Apple Bloom said.

"That right?" I asked with a smile as I looked at the stallion.

"Uh yes I'm Grand Pear yer Highness. I'm Apple Bloom's grandpa," Grand Pear said with a polite bow.

"Really!" I asked with surprise. "Well a pleasure to meet you Grand Pear, I had no idea Granny Smith's husband was still around." I said as I shook the stallion's hand

"Oh no no I'm the Apple's grandpa on their mother's side," Grand Pear said.

"Oh I see, pardon the assumption," I said.

"Grand Pear Pear here and Granny were long time rivals before our parents...," Apple Bloom started but stopped when Grand Pear placed a hand on the filly's shoulder.

"Forgive me but I don't think you of all should be troubled by such small matters regarding our family," Grand Pear said.

"Y'know if you don't mind I'd like to swing by the farm later on and see how everyone is doing, been awhile since I saw the whole Apple Family under one roof," I said.

"Sure Uncle Ash we'd love for you to come. Right Grand Pear Pear?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Absolutely," Grand Pear said.

"Wonderful," I said.

"But your Highness...," Kibitz started.

"Kibitz let's face it, no one is coming in today. Close the court and take the rest of the day off my friend," I said.

"I-I...Very well your Highness," Kibitz said with a bow.

"Thank you Kibitz now why don't you two go ahead and I'll meet you both there after I take care of some things," I said.

"Yes sir, c'mon Grand Pear Pear," Apple Bloom said as she led the stallion out of the room.

With a smile I left the throne room also but went in the opposite direction of the two before me to go tell Faust of my visit to Paradise Acres and that court was closed for the day because of the lack of subjects. Before I set off though I ran into Luna and Nightmare in the hallway and Midnight was in Luna's arms.

"Dada," Midnight said when he spotted me and tried to reach for me.

"That's right Midnight, want to show him how much you improved?" Luna asked as she set Midnight down on the floor on his hooves. Once she let him go Midnight began to walk towards me with slow small steps and it was then I crouched down and held my arms out to the colt.

Seeing my youngest son walking brought back memories of when he took his first steps when I was still Bones.

---

Flashback Dining Room

---

"And then the guy goes 'that ain't a watermelon, that's my wife'," Elisa said causing me and my fellow Harbingers to roar with laughter while in the corner sat the youngest foals all playing with their toys.

"Oh man that was great even got mister serious over here to laugh," Rage said as he gestured to me with a thumb.

"Ha ha mister I can't change a diaper," I said.

"Oi have you seen what a baby Draconequus can do in those things," Rage said defensively.

"So basically the mighty Rage, who is feared by both demons and caribou, is afraid of changing his own sons diaper?" Evan asked.

"Oh ho ho oh okay....C'mere," Rage said before he suddenly appeared next to Evan, put him in a headlock and started giving him a noogie causing Elisa to laugh at Evan's discomfort.

I just shook my head at the pair before I looked over at the foals and saw Midnight was trying to stand on his own two hooves while the other two watched. Once Midnight was up he looked like he was going to loose his balance but managed to regain it. He then started walking towards us before I looked at the others.

"Hey lovebirds," I said gaining everyone's attention before I looked back at Midnight. "Get a load of this."

"Well I'll be," Rage said as he looked at the walking foal.

For awhile none of us spoke, just watched as the foal showed us how he was growing up.

"C'mon little guy c'mere buddy, come to Uncle Rage," Rage said as he crouched down and tried coaxing Midnight to come to him and for a bit it worked till Midnight changed direction and approached me.

"No no, go to him," I said as I gestured to Rage but Midnight still walked towards me before I pointed to Elisa. "Go to her," But still the young foal walked towards me before he fell upon my leg and used it as a leaning post. "Uh...Okay, great job. Best keep practising squirt," I said before I set the foal to head towards Rage.

"Look at that, the little guy is growing up fast," Elisa said as Rage picked up Midnight when he reached him.

"Ash would be proud of ya little guy," Evan praised.

Just then the royal family walked in and Rage set the colt down on his hooves before he began to walk towards his mom much to Luna's shock as tears of pride fell from her eyes much like everyone else. That night, thanks to Pinkie, a massive party was thrown for the little alicorn.

---

I was pulled out of my memories as I felt something pulling at my clothes. When I looked Midnight was there with the sweetest smile on his face. I picked him up and held him close as tears leaked from my eyes.

"Ash what's wrong?" Luna asked as she approached.

"Oh...nothing just remembering Midnight's first steps," I said as I wiped the tears from my eyes.

"What happened to court Ash, I thought you were going to run it?" Nightmare asked.

"No one bothered to show up and it was then I got a visit from our niece Apple Bloom so I decided to go over to her place and see how her family is settling in," I said as I held Midnight up before me causing him to giggle. "That and also perhaps hear some stories. Apparently Apple Bloom, Applejack and Big Mac were reunited with their grandpa from their mother's side.

"Really, would it be a bother if I joined you?" Nightmare asked.

"Not at all would you like to join us Luna?" I asked.

"I'd love to but in truth I had plans to go play on a few game consoles," Luna said.

"Very well then but I shall be taking our little Star along, pretty sure Granny Smith would like to see him as well," I said.

"Of course have fun you three," Luna said before she left.

With that I summoned some warm blankets for Midnight Star and wrapped him in them before I put on a winter coat for myself with Moon doing the same for herself before we flew over to Paradise Acres. When we arrived at the farmhouse it was more like a farm mansion, big enough to hold the entire Apple Family and then some. Upon arriving at the front door I gave a knock and after waiting a few seconds the door was opened by Applejack.

"Ash, Nightmare Moon...and little Midnight Star, what brings ya'll here?" Applejack asked when she saw us.

"Appa," Midnight said as he reached out for Applejack.

"He's getting better but as for why're we here, its because I was curious as to finding out why you now have a grandfather on your mother's side and I wasn't told about it," I said.

"Oh sorry about that Ash guess it musta slipped mah mind. Why don't ya'll come inside out of that there cold before ya'll freeze over," Applejack said as she stepped to the side and allowed us to enter.

Once we were inside I hung my coat up on a coat rack and looked around. Despite the size of the house it was as warm, homely and cozy as the farmhouse back at Sweet Apple Acres. There were dozens of ponies about ranging from foals to the elderly. The rooms, walls and floors were made from apple tree wood and some rooms had a few electric chandeliers that managed to give a comforting feel to the rooms and despite the house's size no one could deny it's warm comforts.

"Well bless my sight Ash Blade himself has come to visit our humble home," Granny Smith said as she walked into the entrance hallway.

"Hello Granny Smith, I brought a little someone who wanted to say hi," I said as I set Midnight on the floor and let him walk to Granny Smith who happily picked up the colt and gave him plenty of kisses.

"They grow up so fast don't they," Applejack said.

"So true. Anyway I just dropped in to see how your family was settling in and about that story, Moon here also wished to come along as well," I said as I gestured to the dark furred alicorn.

"Well if it's a story ya'll want then come with me into the family room," Granny said as she led us into a large room where I saw several Apples were here talking or, in the foals case, playing with toys while Granny Smith sat in a comfy looking armchair with Midnight in her lap.

"Now what's this story ya wanna hear?" Granny Smith asked.

"Well Apple Bloom told me about Grand Pear and how he was her grandfather on their mother's side but I don't know a whole lot of details about your son and daughter in law. So I guess I'm asking for a story about your son Bright Mac and Buttercup, just how exactly did they meet?" I asked.

"Oh well you both might want to get comfy now this may take awhile," Granny Smith said. So I grabbed a pair of chairs for both myself and Moon while everyone else turned to listen to the story.

---

Few Hours Later

---

Afterwards I was truly shocked and warmed by the story which reminded me of Romeo and Juliet and when Granny Smith mentioned the love song Pear Butter made for Bright Macintosh I swear I could hear her sing, it as if she was in the very room with us. Granny even told me when the Apple siblings were born, each one born in the barn of Sweet Apple Acres and Applejack wanted the same thing if she ever decided to have foals of her own which made me smile.

"Y'know it's was truly shocking when we discovered we were half pear," Mac said who arrived while the story was being told.

"Really?" I asked.

"Yeah at first I was afraid of what everyone would think of us," Mac said.

"Would that really be so bad. I mean, what's wrong with being half and half?" I asked.

"Well it's not...," Mac started before he looked at me and froze while I gave him a smile that said 'go on finish what you were gonna say'. I could see everyone else in the room was freaking out while Mac was choking on his words, that is until I started laughing.

"It's alright Mac, I knew you meant nothing by it," I said after I calmed down allowing everyone to release the breath they were all holding.

After that and with a homemade lunch in our bellies Moon, Midnight and myself left Paradise Acres and made it back to the castle where I was informed by one of the servants that Rage, Elisa and Evan had returned. I then handed a sleeping Midnight to them and asked them to take the colt to his room.

"It was a lovely story but I'm surprised their parents weren't around or on the missing ponies board," Moon said as we walked through the hallways.

"It's because they're dead Moon," I said with a pause to let the information sink in.

"H-how?" Moon asked.

"There was an accident few months after Pear Butter gave birth to Apple Bloom, both she and Bright Mac. They were walking along a gorge with both Applejack and Big Mac when they spotted a pair of foals screaming for help on an old wooden bridge and thanks to their efforts both foals were placed back on solid ground. However...the bridge gave way under them, sending them falling into a river at the bottom of the gorge. The entire Apple Family and volunteers dragged the river for weeks on end but no bodies were ever recovered," I said.

"How horrible," Moon said sadly, even Midnight could sense the mood.

"I know but we'd best not discuss it around them. When I asked Applejack she started crying uncontrollably so I left it alone. It wasn't until I stumbled upon an article detailing the story when I was going through Ponyville's historical records did I find out," I said.

"I wish there was something I could do," Moon said.

"That's kind of you but you and I both know bringing the dead back to life in that way is impossible unless done by a god and I personally would rather let the dead rest. Just imagine the trouble I'd create if I decided to bring just one person back from the dead," I said.

"Understandable," Moon said.

"Now enough gloom and doom...Y'know I feel like watching a movie all of a sudden," I said.

"Oh and what do you wish to watch?" Moon asked.

"I was thinking Star Wars," I said.

"What's Star Wars?" Moon asked.

Just like that my body shut down and felt numb while Moon's question rang through my mind like a broken record.

"Ash?" Moon asked as I slowly turned to look at her in bewilderment.

"PINKIE PIES!" I shouted and in a flash all three Pinkie Pies from each world appeared before me.

"You called," they said in sync..

"This is an emergency Moon doesn't know what Star Wars is," I said causing the three to gasp in horror. "As of now this is a Code Black and White Marathon Alpha. Earth Pinkie, you are in charge of snacks. Get the tastiest and most delicious treats in existence make them if you have to. Elisa's Pinkie, you are in charge of gathering the softest and comfiest seats imaginable, as soft or softer then a cloud, and place them in the movie room. Pinkie, gather the others and inform them of the movie marathon. Am I understood!" I shouted.

"Sir, Yes Sir!" the three shouted with a salute.

"Well what are you still doing here move, move, move!" I said as I clapped my hands causing the mares to dash off.

"Uh what did I miss?" Moon asked.

"Follow me," I said.

I didn't say a word as I led Moon to the movie room and saw there were several new seats in the room courtesy of Elisa's Pinkie. I then used my magic to enlarge the screen to make it seem like we were in a theatre before I went through the movie cabinet and debated weather to watch either episode one or four first till suddenly I remembered that particular scene in episode five and that it would be more entertaining for Moon if we started off with that one first. Earth Pinkie then arrived with an assortment of treats, snacks and drinks so I set up a table on the side of the room and helped set up the food and soon the others began to arrive and began to have a seat. Once they were all here I walked before everyone and cleared my throat.

"Hello everyone. First off I know the invitation was rather sudden so thank you for coming. Now the reason we're here is to have a movie marathon and the marathon is gonna be for Star Wars," I said as I gestured to the screen behind me causing a few to whisper yes or smirk at my words, some even going as far as to put on some Star Wars merchandise. "One of the two reasons why I am hosting this is because we haven't done so in awhile and the second reason and most importantly is because Moon here hasn't even heard of Star Wars before," I said causing many to gasp in horror. "I know I know awfully tragic, but that is why we're here to right this wrong."

"Uh excuse me," Rockhoof said while raising his hand.

"Yes Rockhoof?" I asked.

"What is this film you speak of because we have not heard of it?" Rockhoof said as he gestured to the other Pillars causing many to gasp again while I just face palmed.

"Perhaps it would be best if I show you first hand. Everyone drain your bladders, grab some food and refreshments and find a seat. Our trip to the stars will begin in ten minutes," I said.

Just like that everyone did as I instructed while I took on my wolf form. Once this world's Rainbow got back she hovered over me for a few seconds before she draped herself over me and snuggled into my fur.

"Oh yeah, now I understand why Scoots and your wives like this so much," Rainbow said before she let out a sigh before she started purring like a cat.

When the foals and my wives got back they were angered at the intruder for stealing their cuddle pillow and practically screamed at Rainbow to get off me. But I quickly lost interest in the fight while I waited for the others to turn up. When Faust arrived she settled the matter with a quick scolding, telling them to share. Once everyone was present and set I used magic to press the play button and begin the movie.

---

Next Day After Several Amazing Movies

---

As expected Moon and the Pillars were blown away once they watched episode five and learned Darth Vader's identity. The reactions were absolutely priceless (I was sure to take a picture) and after the movie we all headed for bed. I woke up early the next day and headed to the dining room, ordered my breakfast and waited. As I waited my mind drifted off onto my train of thought and didn't even notice breakfast was laid out in front of me. I was broken out of my trance when someone wrapped their arms around my neck in a loving embrace before purring in my ear but the sweet scent of morning dew gave her away.

"Good morning handsome," Moon purred into my ear before she began to nibble on it's corner.

"Good morning to you too beautiful, Luna not up yet?" I asked.

"We were washing each other in the large bath and she was drying herself off when I left," Moon said.

"Bet that must have been a sight to see," I said as turned to face Moon before giving her a deep kiss on the lips.

"I noticed you leave early this morning. Wanna tell me what you were up too?" Moon asked once we parted lips.

"Just ended up doing a lot of thinking and as for what it was about, it can wait till after breakfast Moon," I said as I used my right hand to pat her on the arms for reassurance.

So Moon then took a seat and ordered some food and I finished mine while I waited for the others. After awhile everyone arrived and began to eat. When the foals finished they said their goodbyes before heading to school.

"So Ash, this has been bugging me but you never told us what happened to your co-I mean your ex comrades when you went all dark and stuff?" Soarin asked.

"Soarin, after all you've seen, don't you think it would be a good idea to leave things to your imagination?" Rarity said scornfully.

"I know but honestly my imagination is just showing me so pretty scary shit. I mean, we all know that at least one of them hasn't been put six feet under so the question I want to know is what happened to the rest," Soarin said.

"That's a fair question I suppose," I said causing everyone to look at me as I stood up. "You lot finish up and meet me in Red's room. I'll explain everything there and there's something I need to tell you as well."

I then walked out of the dining room and into the hallway and headed towards the hall of armors. When I arrived, I unlocked the door to Red's room and went inside. I picked up the sword I summoned back in Hollow Shades and turned it over a few times before I stared into the empty eye sockets of the 'helmet'. Suddenly I heard hoofsteps enter the room and I turned to look at everyone over my shoulder.

"Sorry I dragged you all down here right after breakfast," I said.

"It's cool," Elisa said.

"Wanna tell us why your holding that?" Faust asked.

"It's still my sword as horrible as it is but truthfully, I was thinking of changing it's appearance and giving it a name. Wouldn't do to keep calling it sword or whatever," I said.

"That why you asked us to come down here and what you wanted to tell us?" Comet asked.

"No I was just thinking this idea over when you came in," I said.

"Well has to be something dark...How about Soul Eater?" Rainbow asked.

"Nah there's an anime with that title already," Elisa said.

"Uh guys...," I started

"The Devourer," Pinkie suggested.

"I believe that there title's something you give to a livin being and not a sword," Applejack said.

"Guys, I've already..," I started

"How about Despair," Rarity suggested

"Oh that's a good one," Twilight said.

"I don't understand why we're coming up with sword names for that thing anyway," Celestia said

"Guys!" I shouted gaining everyone's attention. "Listen I appreciate the suggestions but I already picked one and what it's new appearance will be."

I then held the sword in my left hand and held it and my arm horizontally. I focused on all the fear, cruelty, hatred, and bloodlust I wrought and felt when I first wielded this blade. I then transformed those feelings into magic and watched as that dark magic crawled across the skin of my left arm freaking out everyone and causing them to back away. The magic then crawled along the blade and suddenly the blades began to merge into one. The blade was that of a longsword and was a combination of the three blades but the blade itself had a familiar appearance and I saw both Moon and Luna mouth one word when they saw the blade.

"Frostmourne."

With the blade completed I lowered my arm and pointed the tip of the blade to the ground and released a breath.

"Ash...It still you in there?" Rainbow asked.

"Yeah...who else would it be Skittles?" I asked.

"Well your eyes kinda turned...black when you did that," Mac said.

"Oh...sorry about that," I said before I rubbed my eyes and looked the blade over. "I decided this sword's name would be...Deathcaliber."

"Whoa that's even better then Heart of Darkness I thought of," Spike said.

"Better then Soul Splitter," Moon said.

"Okay so the blade's been reshaped and named, I believe you have a story now?" Soarin asked causing me to nod before I used my magic to grab a crystal and bring it to my hand then I placed it into the projector.

Once the crystal was in place our surroundings changed to that of a field. I was there wearing Red Reaper and was riding on my recently revived horse as I was riding away from a burning village I just destroyed.

"You did well."

I halted my steed and turned to look. Like out of thin air there they sat on undead mounts of their own. My former comrades, all of them were changed but their faces or most of their faces were covered in their helms or masks and before them all was Geralt himself. I then dismounted before I walked towards them and drew Deathcaliber.

"I see you have the blade I gave you," Geralt said as I stopped before them. "Now...kneel."

At first I didn't budge an inch, I just stood there with eyes that could piece through the devil himself till I twirled the blade around, planting the tips into the ground and kneeled. It was then that I pulled the crystal from the projecter.

"Geeze, every time I look at the smug bastard I want to slap him in the face even if he does look like something that walked out of a supernatural horror movie," Caramel said.

"So what then?" Rainbow asked.

"War, death, destruction and chaos across all of Europe and beyond. Everyone called it The Dark Millennium because that's how long it lasted thanks to...whatever happened to us. So much of Earth's history was wiped out by us back then, even the historical records of Camelot, which would be proof in this day and age that it actually existed and wasn't a myth," I said as I shook my head in disappointment. "During Geralt's reign we conquered every kingdom known to man at that time...that world became dark and cold and full of unspeakable terrors."

"But what about now, didn't the humans put up a resistance? I mean, they did didn't they?" Gilda asked.

"They did...many times in fact but each one met the same fate. Their flames of faith were smothered beneath our boots and every time it happened a mass killing was ordered. Random people young, old or sick, they were all executed in the streets causing them to run red with blood. I was the one who oversaw the whole thing and I pointed out who should die. People started calling me Red Reaper after that," I said sadly as I rested my head in one of my hands and felt a few tears crawl down my face. The group then went to comfort me but I held up a hand to stop them before wiping my tears away. "As I said many rebellions were crushed. But it wasn't until one man appeared out of nowhere with an army behind him banging on our door claiming to be given the gift of holy power from God himself. Naturally I was sent to kill this man but he was more powerful then I thought and that man became history's first paladin," I said as I pulled out another crystal and inserted it into the projector.

The scene showed me rushing through a very big yet dark and Gothic hallway with Deathcaliber in my grasp. The only light source to show my path were torches with skulls mounted atop them presenting a very creepy vibe to any who would walk these halls. I was clutching my waist while a black substance leaked from behind my hand informing everyone I was wounded. I soon reached the end of the hallway and was greeted by a set of large dark stone doors with images of suffering carved into them. I didn't waste any time and forced the doors open as if they were nothing. Upon entering the room turned out to be a massive throne room, the symbol of the Apex Predators hung from the ceiling, skeletons decorated the walls and the throne was made of skulls. But what pulled at my past self's attention was the swirling dark green vortex. I saw Catherine walk into it and disappear in a flash of light leaving the only occupant in the room besides me, Geralt.

"Ash, what news do you have?" Geralt asked as he looked at me over his shoulder causing me to kneel and embed the tips of Deathcaliber into the ground.

"My lord Geralt, the rebellion has broken into the courtyard. They will be here in a matter of minutes and our forces are no match for their leader's magic," I said calmly.

"I see, so God has decided to interfere after all," Geralt said.

"My lord what must we do?" I asked.

"I've already decided that our best course of action is to withdraw for now through this portal and regather our strength," Geralt said as he gestured to the swirling vortex.

"And give up the palace?" I asked in shock.

"We can always come back and reclaim this place Ash," Geralt said.

"I...As you wish my lord," I said as I got up and began to walk towards the portal but Geralt raised a hand to stop me.

"No Ash, I'm afraid this is where our journey together ends," Geralt said causing me to freeze and look at Geralt in shock.

"My lord?" I began to ask but was interrupted.

"You have served me well but this is where it ends," Geralt said before he walked through the portal and with a flash he was gone.

"My lord wait!" I shouted as I ran to reach the portal but before I could reach it the portal shrank till it no longer existed, leaving me alone before I collapsed to my knees and stared at the empty space.

"Ah can't believe that just happened. Not only were yah betrayed once but twice by the same people. Granted you had no control over the second time but still!" Applejack shouted.

"Took the words right of my mouth AJ," Rainbow said.

"Shhh something's happening," Rarity said.

Suddenly several warriors wearing white, gold and blue plate armor, which was big and bulky and just screamed paladin, rushed in, each carrying elegantly designed weapons and shields with the same symbol on them. Then another calmly walked in and his armor seemed more decorated then the others and he wielded a beautifully crafted longsword studded with precious stones. At first glance anyone could see he was the leader.

"Surrender Red Reaper, your days of death and destruction are over. If you reveal where the remaining commanders of the Apex Predators are along with your leader Geralt then your death shall be merciful and quick," the leader demanded but I didn't budge from my position.

One of the paladins on my right who was armed with a spear then approached me and poked me in the shoulder with the spear. When they turned to face the commander I grabbed the spear and pulled it and the paladin towards me. When the paladin was within range the jaws of my helmet opened up revealing nothing but burnt flesh. The jaws then clamped down on the paladin's windpipe before I grabbed them by the chest plate and threw them away, tearing out their throat. When the paladin hit the wall everyone turned to face me as I chewed on the destroyed throat before I lifted my head and swallowed. Everyone watched as my neck bulged as the body part went down my own throat causing me to shudder and throw up in my mouth. My past self then growled at the remaining paladins before unleashing an ungodly scream of rage which signalled the beginning of our battle. As I watched myself fight I couldn't believe I was the one underneath all that before I shook my head to banish any dark thoughts and when I looked back at the fight I saw Red stop for a brief second, allowing a paladin to strike me across the face before I jumped back into it.

"Hey Ash, why did you stop like that?" Rage asked.

"Heh should have known you'd have seen that. Well to put it simply, when Red moved in my own thoughts and voice hadn't been snuffed out. During our time together I looked for any way to escape that hell even go as far as to end my own life. I even tried to sow a little discord among Red and Geralt and right after Geralt abandoned us I decided to strike. Because of that I filled Red with blind rage so he wasn't thinking straight, allowing me to slowly take control of my body once more," I said as my past self moved to finish off another paladin.

But before the blade reached him my body once again stopped, surprising the paladins around me. Suddenly Red began to stumble back and clutch his head in his right hand as if in pain but in truth he was trying to fight me. I had gained a lot of control however I was quickly losing it, all the while Red was grunting, growling and screaming in pain before he fell to his knees. It was then I took control of the arms and forced them to let go of Deathcaliber and pry the jaws open before ripping off a piece of the blacked flesh that covered my face revealing part of who I once was.

"Listen...I can't hold him for long...Please...Kill me...End this," I pleaded as tears poured from my only visible eye.

The paladins were shocked when they saw me before the lead paladin stepped forward. Suddenly his blade was surrounded by a bright golden glow before he plunged the blade into my chest and for the first time since I donned that armor I felt warmth. I then fell forward into the paladin's shoulder and lifted myself to whisper into his ear.

"Thank...you," I said before I collapsed and breathed no more. Our surroundings went dark, I then pulled the crystal from the projector and put it back in place.

"Whoa," everyone said in sync.

"Yeah pretty intense," I said.

"Ash, how you've not gone mad from everything you've seen and done is a mystery I'll never be able to solve," Moon said.

"Heh funny you should mention that. Twilight has been trying to work out the same thing for quite some time," I said as I gestured to the purple alicorn who was scribbling something down in a notebook. Once she realized we were all looking at her she quickly hid her utensils behind her back while she blushed.

"She's so adorkable at times," Cadence smiled.

"Hey!" Twilight whined.

"Adorkable, why didn't I think of that?" Rainbow asked herself.

"Maybe it's because your brain ain't built for thinking that hard," Rage chuckled causing Gilda to laugh.

"Hey!" Rainbow shouted.

"So Ash what was the last thing you asked us here for?" Spike asked bringing everyone back on track.

"Yeah but you guys aren't gonna like what I'm about to say...I'm planing on wearing Red Reaper once more," I said.

"I'm sorry could you repeat that, I must have misheard you," Rage said as he rubbed an ear.

"I'm planing on wearing Red Reaper again and use his power to help us," I said only to get slapped in the face by Luna. "Ow!" Next I was slapped by Moon. "Okay I ge-," I started but was once more slapped in the face by Rage. "Would yo-," but once more was slapped only by Fluttershy. "Enough with the slapping already I get it, bad idea."

"TERRIBLE IDEA!" Everyone shouted as loud as they could.

"Ash why in all of creation would you want to wear that again?" Faust asked in shock.

"Because of them...my former comrades Geralt, Emily, Rawlin, Marco, Allen, Catherine and Giff. They're all here in Equestria somehow and for what that reason is I don't know but the fact that they're here alone scares me," I said.

"How do you know they're all here?" Caramel asked.

"Back at Hollow Shades, it was Allen who captured me and I bet you if both he and Catherine are here then so are the others and I believe they sided with the caribou," I said.

"That's insane, what would they have to gain form this mess?" Rage asked.

"I don't know but whatever it is can't be good," I said.

"This still doesn't explain why you want to wear that armor again," Twilight said.

"To fight fire with fire and complete a vow I made," I said causing everyone to pause and look at me in question. "Rage, Elisa, Evan you three said that Catherine's aura alone terrified you beyond words, imagine what you'd be dealing with if it were Geralt," I said causing the three to back up and lower their heads, they were also thinking if such a thing had happened. "If I were to wield both my power and Red's power it's very likely I may be able to stop them once and for all and also...I made a vow when I was trapped inside that armor that if by some miracle I ever got out and gained control of my body, I would take Deathcaliber and plunge it into Geralt's cold un-beating heart."

Everyone was silent even as I got up from my seat and walked over to where I placed Deathcaliber and picked it up.

"Ash."

I looked at the voice and saw it was Luna who spoke.

"Make sure you come back to us," Luna said.

"Yes don't even think for a minute that we're going to just let you go without a fight," Moon said causing me to smile and nod before I turned to the empty armor.

"Red Reaper, during our lifetime together I have wanted nothing more then to be separated from you and cast you into The Abyss I watch over in hell and see you rot away both physically and from my memory. The only reason you're still here is because in case Geralt and the others ever returned I knew I would need your help to end them despite all we did together. I am willing to do anything to save my home," I said as I lifted Deathcaliber into the air and with a single swing, the chains and seals holding Red Reaper shattered causing it to collapse to it's knees. "Even if it means releasing and mergingwith you one last time," I said as I dropped Deathcaliber before Red. Just then a red flaming iris with a slit pupil in the center appeared in each eye socket before he grasped Deathcaliber in his right hand and stood up causing everyone to back away in fear of the armor. But I stood before Red and stared him down. "What will it be Red will you help me put this story to an end or will our swords do the talking for us?"

Red just stared at me, his expression appeared angry but that was how he always looked. He then lifted Deathcaliber causing some of the group to summon their weapons but I held a hand up to stop them from doing anything. Red then paused in his movement as we continued to stare at each other before he suddenly sheathed Deathcaliber causing everyone to sigh in relief. I then held up my left hand to shake hands to complete our pact. Red then did the same and when our hands met there was a bright light between us before I felt Red enter my body and merge with me once more. Once the light faded I fell backwards but before I hit the ground I felt several hands catch me before setting me back on my own two feet.

"Hey you still in there?" Elisa asked.

"I...I think so," I said.

"You don't look any different, everything okay inside?" Caramel asked.

"So far," I said before I lifted my left arm.

I then took a deep breath and then tried summoning Red's left forearm to mine. Suddenly burnt flesh began to form on my forearm and as if it was a pool of black liquid the silver coated bones rose out of the blacked flesh forming Red's forearm.

"Okay that's still kinda creepy," Comet said.

"Oh come off it," I said.

"Ash it's spreading!" Fluttershy shouted.

I then looked at my arm again and saw more burnt flesh clawing up my arm causing me to grab onto it with my right hand.

"Oh no you don't you've had control over my body for long enough Red from here on out I make the rules and it's either you play by my rules or not at all," I growled as I gripped my arm tightly.

Suddenly the spread stopped before it retracted and disappeared from my arm entirely.

"Ash, are you alright?" Luna asked as she ran her hands across my left arm.

"I'm fine Luna..He knows I'm in charge now, he won't cause any trouble," I said.

How can you be sure?" Rage asked.

"Because he will be watching over him," I said as I held up my right hand and there appeared a miniature blue holographic like version of my armor. "You all remember Epsilon right?"

"What's happening tiny," Rage said.

"Hmpf I can see your manners are as pleasant as ever Burning Rage," Epsilon said, his voice young yet mature almost like a teenager version of myself.

"Wait a second, this just came to mind but what happened to Epsilon when you kicked the bucket?" Gilda asked.

"Ah good question. Epsilon journeyed with me into the afterlife and was with me during my training but when the caribou attacked and when we learned of how I was going to get back here I sent Epsilon down here to help me remember who I was by having him travel through the world's mana lines helping where he could like with Starlight's suicide attempt," I said.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa hold on, you mean your...," Starlight started.

"Active conscience," Faust said.

"Yes that you mean your conscience was in my head and stopped me from killing myself and not you?" Starlight asked.

"Well if it's any conselation he said what I would have said to you if I'd been there," I said.

"That's not the point though," Starlight said.

"Now hold on a second back at the weather factory in Cloudsdale back when we were surrounded and...you appeared was that actually Epsilon too?" Rage asked.

"Indeed it was. I used the world's mana lines to provide me with enough power to manifest myself into a physical form so I could assist you and I did the same for other incidents. Example taking Ash's wolf form to help him," Epsilon said shocking everyone.

"What, did you lot think that during all this time I was actually seeing my own ghost or something because that's just stupid," I said causing a few to chuckle nervously.

"Okay so we know Epsilon will keep an eye on Red Reaper but all that's left to ask is what now?" Twilight asked while Epsilon disappeared and I lowered my hand.

"I was thinking of a test drive," I said.

---

Caribou Occupied Fortress within the Crystal Mountains Two Days Later Third Person P.O.V.

---

Deep within the frozen Crystal Mountains stood a massive fortress. Snow piled against the sturdy walls and many buildings stood tall within them. Each life inside the fortress was either a male caribou or male and each one was miserable for one reason or another. One could be about the lack of female company, another could be about the food, another could about the blizzard raging all around them or all three. But for now let's focus on the two caribou sentries who stand guard at the main gates.

"Hey," one of the caribou call to his partner.

"Hmm?" the second caribou hummed.

"Ever wonder why we're here?" the first caribou asked.

"Because we drew lots and got the short end of the stick," the second said.

"No I mean why are we here, why we were given life?" the first asked.

"Duh ain't it obvious to show males the truth of female tyranny," the second said.

"I know but...what is that!?" the first guard shouted as he pointed out into the blinding snow at a dark silhouette who was approaching.

"I don't know but no one would be crazy enough to come all the way out here in this weather just to sell cookies," the second guard said as he drew his sword.

"What is it with you and cook...Hey where did you go?" the first caribou said when he looked and noticed his missing partner before he noticed the silhouette in the snow had also disappeared causing the lone sentry to tremble. "What the hell is going on?"

Suddenly a deep low growl echoed above the wind behind him and it felt close, too close for comfort. Slowly the caribou turned around and came face first with a silver ribcage. The guard then looked up and was greeted by a silver wolf skull covered by a blood red hood but what terrified the caribou most were the flaming red irises within the black eye sockets of the skull. Before the caribou could scream the towering monster plunged four fingers into the caribou's neck, silencing him before the monster removed it's fingers and let the caribou fall clutching it's neck.

---

Ash's P.O.V.

---

"Well it appears you haven't lost your touch."

"And here I thought I wouldn't need to talk to you this entire trip," I thought.

"Your still mad about earlier?"

"Of course I am. You know as well as I on what I intended for this partnership Red Reaper," I thought angrily.

"Y'know I only wanted to see what this body was like. After all it's been over a millennia and from what I could get just from your arm I'm going to enjoy our time together," Red said.

"Just as I thought, the only reason you wanted to link with me is so you could go on a killing spree," I thought.

"Words hurt Ash, words hurt and for your information I want what you want here just so you know. Geralt's heart as a trophy," Red said.

"No you want his heart as a trophy I want him dead," I thought.

"Same thing, different wording," Red said.

"Gods your insufferable," I thought before I turned away from the body and entered the fort.

When I entered the fortress I saw a couple caribou walk out of the main building and when they saw me they scrambled to draw their weapons. So I pulled out my IPod before I selected a song before I hit play.

Rolling my neck and earning several cracks, I walked forward and drew Deathcaliber just as the caribou got their weapons loose. The first one charged at me but with a flick of the blade I disarmed him before I split the buck down the middle before I ran my arm into the second buck and ripped out his entire ribcage, lungs, heart and all in a splatter of blood before I tossed the items away carelessly. I walked forward again and with the next swing of my blade the caribou was reduced to a chunky pile of blood and guts. The frightening display of power I wielded seemed to scare the rest senseless causing them to run. But with a flick of my left arm the whip Rage made me extended from my arm and severed the fleeing caribou thanks to the bladed spine shaped whip. Suddenly a bell started to toll and when I looked I saw a caribou in a watch tower was ringing a bell drawing more out of the buildings. Suddenly I felt my consciousness begin to fade. I tried to fight against it however whatever was pulling me was stronger causing me to roar in an attempt to rouse myself but this roar was a mix between mine and that of a ferocious blood thirsty beast and when I finished I knew naught but black.

---

???

---

I was lying on my back looking up at a bright blue sky while reeds of wheat swayed in the breeze around the edges of my vision. I could feel water against my back but I didn't care. I remembered everything from entering the fortress and my conscious getting dragged into this place and despite all that, I felt calm. I then got up and found the reeds reached up to my waist. I then looked around and saw nothing but reeds for miles except for a lone tree behind me which was full of fresh green leaves. I walked towards it and upon arrival I saw both Epsilon and Red Reaper were sitting in the branches of the tree.

"I know what your thinking and it was not my fault alright," Red said as he held his hands up defensively.

"He's right, I noticed this as soon as you donned the...'armor' that your conciseness was slowly being pulled into your mind. At first it was small and hardly worth worrying about then suddenly it spiked and you ended up here," Epsilon said.

"Okay but hang on a sec, if your both here who's driving my body?" I asked.

"No one," Red said.

"Scuse me are you saying I'm just taking hits right now?" I asked.

"Actually your body is on auto pilot reacting with muscle memory from your lifetime of conflict," Epsilon said.

"Huh," I said in surprise.

"Gotta say this is a charming place," Red said as he looked around.

"That's unlike you to say about a place like this," I said.

"Not really considering what's at your feet," Red said as he pointed at my feet.

I then looked down and to my surprise lying there was a decomposing corpse wearing the armor of a viking Raider from the three way war on Earth.

"I know this guy, it was when we began our siege on the vikings store house the same store house where I fought Gudmundr," I said before I looked around and saw several other bodies along with rusted weapons and decaying banners of a forgotten age flapping in a non existent wind.

"These bodies...the faces I never forgot," I said.

"Indeed sure it looks peaceful at first but once you get a good look at it," Red aid as he held his arm out for me to gaze around. "A forgotten battleground that stretches beyond the horizon just starting to heal."

"It's easy to forget just how many bodies one would leave in their wake," I said.

"Quite...looks like it's almost time for you to leave," Epsilon said.

"Wait hold on what was the point of bringing me here?" I asked.

"Heh the armor does not respond to reason Ash. It will only act on instinct and control is not instinct," Red said when suddenly I was dragged out of the field of reeds.

---

Third Person P.O.V

---

Ash opened his eyes and looked around and saw hundreds of dead caribou and stallions while most of the buildings were on fire. He then looked down at his hands and saw he was still wearing Red before it slowly began to disappear. Suddenly the helm opened it's jaws and the lower jaw split in two. The top half of the helm lifted over Ash's head almost as if it was throwing him up before it disappeared beneath his skin leaving Ash in his winter clothing. He then let out a sigh and made his way back to Shadow Ranger who was parked not too far away with a Heating Dome spell surrounding her so she wouldn't be affected by the cold.

"Let's get out of here girl," Ash said before Shadow whinnied to life and began to roll across the plains.

After a few hours they left the Crystal Mountains and headed back to Aephoceria. The ride was quiet all that was there was the cold wind and falling snowflakes that blew around Ash and the snow covered ground. When they made it back Shadow halted at the castle doors and turned into her horse form. Ash then put Shadow in the stable right beside Bone Rattler and Elisa and Evan's horses and gave them all a pet before he headed inside and became lost in thought.

"Hey Ash."

Snapping from his thoughts Ash looked up from the ground and saw Rage running to catch up to him.

"Hello Rage," Ash said.

"You alright, you look down...Something happen with...y'know?" Rage asked.

"Yes and no. Yes, it happened when I was wearing him and no he wasn't responsible for it. The armor itself is just rejecting my control over it," Ash said.

"It can do that?" Rage asked.

"It can do a lot of things Rage, things that can scare even me. I just need to work though it. After all this was just a test drive," Ash said.

"I see and the fort?" Rage asked.

"Destroyed," Ash said.

"Nice another step closer to liberating all of Equestria," Rage said.

"Indeed now if you'll excuse me I'm in a bit of a mood so I'm gonna go try to walk it off," Ash said.

"Oh sure, see ya later," Rage said before he left.

With Rage gone Ash continued his walk not really seeking a destination or the like, just trying to pass the time. Just as he was about to walk around a corner he walked into some one and when he looked up he saw it was Moon.

"Beloved your back," Moon said with surprise.

"Indeed but are you alright?" Ash asked when he noticed her eyes were a little bloodshot.

"Oh yes, all is well," Moon said before she let out a loud sneeze and this caused Ash to place a hand on her forehead.

"Your sick," Ash said.

"Oh no, don't you start on me too," Moon groaned.

"So I'm not the only one who noticed?" Ash asked.

"No Luna called me out earlier just before I ran into you," Moon said.

"Why?" Ash asked.

"I just don't want to be treated like I'm a foal with everyone fretting over me," Moon said as she crossed her arms with a pout.

"Okay but you still need to get to bed Moon," Ash said.

"Huh?" Moon asked.

"Come along," Ash said before he picked Moon up bridal style causing her to squeak in surprise before he began to take Moon to the master bedroom.

"Ash weren't you listening to me, put me down this minute ," Moon demanded.

"Moon tell me, would you prefer I be the one to carry you to bed and take care of you like a husband cares for his wife or would you prefer that Luna get Faust and she will treat you like a foal?" Ash asked as he stopped causing Moon to go silent.

"Ash," Moon whined causing Ash to look at her before she nuzzled into the crook of his neck. "Nurse me back to health please."

"As you wish," Ash said with a smile before he walked on before arriving at the master bedroom.

Ash then set Moon down upon the bed and helped her strip until she was in nothing but her bra and panties and tucked her in while placing an enchantment on the blankets covering Moon to adjust to the temperature that suits whoever lies under them. In this case Moon was burning up so the magic covering the covers had turned blue as the enchantment went to work in cooling her off.

Suddenly the door burst open and the two looked and saw Faust was there and frantically looking around till she spotted Moon, just behind Faust the rest of the siblings showed up.

"Oh my poor little baby," Faust began as she began to make her way over to the pair but stopped upon seeing Ash. "Oh Ash I did not realise you had returned.

"Bout fifteen minutes ago actually Faust," Ash said.

"I see but why are you here?" Faust asked.

"Oh because I'm tending to my wife's illness like any other caring husband would and should, especially when she asked me to as she said 'nurse her back to health' I believe that's what you said right Moon?" Ash asked causing her to nod while Luna's jaw fell slack.

"Excuse me...Ash not that I don't appreciate your efforts but it is a mothers duty to tend to their ill child," Faust said.

"Till they get to a certain age Faust and start doing it themselves. I do not doubt your love for Moon here Faust but Moon did ask for me to tend to her and that's what I aim to do. Besides I am the only one less then likely to get sick out of everyone here," Ash said.

"How's that?" Chrysalis asked.

"Because not once in all my life have I ever once gotten sick, not even during the Black Death that killed off two thirds of Europe...Well except for the rat plague back in Dunwall. But, that was only because what I got was infused with a witches curse. Courtesy of the 'Lord Regent' at the time for a slow painful death," Ash said.

"Seriously?" Celestia asked with surprise.

"Seriously, now if you don't mind all of you need to leave so I can tend to Moon," Ash said as he began to shoo everyone out of the room when suddenly Luna teleported into the room.

"I wish to aid in my sister and fellow wife's recovery," Luna said firmly.

"Luna...," Ash began but Moon interrupted.

"Ash let her, just in case you get called away for something," Moon said.

*sigh* "As you wish but the rest of you out now," Ash said before he shooed the others away and closed the door.

"Right let us begin," Luna said before Ash heard a crack of magic.

When Ash turned around he covered his nose with a hand to stop it from leaking blood because there stood Luna wearing a white sexy nurse outfit complete with a nurse cap.

"Uh Luna...what is that?" Ash asked pointing at the outfit.

"My nurse outfit, I was planing on using it for if you ever got sick so I could help aid you," Luna said as she gave a little twirl.

"More like kill me by a nosebleed," Ash thought.

Dayum Ash that's a hot piece of ass you married. Why didn't you tell me you were married to not one but two sexy ladies Red said.

"What the...piss off Red cause I swear to God... Ash started.

"Kay kay relax I'm gone just wanted to get a quick peek at what all the commotion was about," Red said before he left.

"Ash are you alright?" Luna asked.

"Oh yes I'm fine just some wayward thoughts," Ash said causing Luna to seductively smirk. "Maybe later, first Moon."

Agreeing on what Ash said Luna and Ash began tending to Moon but she attempted to to get out of bed a few times by both teleporting and flying. After a threat made by Ash of binding her wings and a suppression ring on her horn along with tying her to the bed she stopped but not before making a sexy remark causing Ash to roll his eyes at his mares antics while Luna giggled. Ash then summoned a small plain metal and wooden chest before he opened it and began searching inside of it.

"Ugh where did I put it, I know it was in here next to the chariot of Icarus," Ash said as he delved deeper into the chest causing him to disappear into the chest up to his upper torso.

"It's either the sickness is making me hallucinate or is that chest deeper then it looks?" Moon asked.

"If it isn't, I fear that I may be sick as well," Luna said as Ash was standing on his toes while most of his body had disappeared into the chest.

"Just give me a second you two...I really need to get an organised system in this thing, can't tell what is where or which way is what," Ash said his voice echoing inside the chest just before his toes left the ground and fully entered the chest while the sound of moving large objects appeared in the back ground.

"Do you need help?" Moon asked as she began to get out of bed.

"Get your ass out of that bed again, I bloody dare you!" Ash shouted from inside the chest as his right hand and wrist appeared out of the chest and pointed at her before disappearing back inside. Moon pulled the cover over her once again but crossed her arms over it while puffing her cheeks up in a pout.

"Ash what in Equestria are you looking for in there?" Luna asked.

"I'll tell you when I find the dam-Whoa!" Ash cried out with the sound of many falling objects echoed after. "FUCK!"

"Ash are you alright?" Luna asked in concern.

"Fine stupid alchemy table just got loose when I was leaning on it is all. Ah there you are ya little bugger!" Ash cried out before climbing out of the chest a few minutes later with a blue jar in his left hand.

"Is that what you were looking for?" Moon asked as she gestured to the jar.

"Yep this is a potion that will cure your sickness a lot faster then normal medicine. Its made from some seriously rare ingredients so this is a pretty difficult potion to make," Ash said as he summoned a spoon and opened the jar before scooping some of the potion into it. He then held it out for Moon to grab but she just opened her mouth instead. "Well, well, well for so much talk about not wanting to be treated like a foal you want me to feed you your medicine."

Moon's eyes then widened in realisation while Luna giggled while Ash shook his head before he closed the jar and put it on the bedside table.

"So what did it taste like?" Luna asked.

"Mixed berries," Moon shrugged.

"Really?" Ash asked.

"You haven't tasted it?" Moon asked.

"Never had a need to remember," Ash said.

"Right...so what else is in that chest of yours?" Moon asked while Luna went to peek inside.

"Oh a lot of stuff, relics mostly but nothing that special," Ash said as he snapped his fingers causing the chest to snap shut before disappearing when suddenly a pair of voices sounded from outside.

“This is so exciting a special assignment from Queen Faust herself!” a masculine voice said

“Why are you so excited?” a feminine voice replied

“Because we actually get a real job this time, no more ‘guarding’ the kitchens.”

“But I liked guarding the kitchens, we got free food.”

“No you extorted them for free food.”

“Free, extorted just semantics besides I risked life and limb for those cooks, technically it was all spoils of war.”

*sigh* (sound of hand slapping against metal) "Anyway we got a real job this time.”

“Great now I actually have to work.”

“This is your job, you know. Can you actually take your job seriously for once?”

“I’d rather have free delicious cake.”

Curious about what was going on outside Ash opened the door and saw a pair of guards both from either the Solar or Lunar Guard Division. The one on the right of the doorway was a male pegasus Solar Guard. He had white alabaster fur and had a blond mane and tail and on the left side of the door was a Thestal mare wearing the armor of the Lunar Guard. She had ash grey fur and an iris purple mane and tail and as soon as Ash saw their appearance he recognised them immediately.

"Private Hoplite and Private Blackthorn," Ash said with a smile when he saw the two guards.

"Your majesty," Hoplite said as he dropped into a kneeling bow.

"Hey, sup your highness. How's it feel to be back from the dead?" Blackthorn asked as she casually waved at me causing Hoplite to silently hiss at her.

"Not bad," Ash said with a shrug before Luna teleported out into the hallway.

"Ah if it isn't one of my favourite guards Blackthorn and her friend Hoplite," Luna said.

"Queen Lun-ahhhh," Hoplite started but his jaw dropped upon seeing Luna who was still wearing her nurse outfit.

"Something wrong Hoplite? Luna asked.

"Uh your Majesty forgive me but are you wearing a nurse outfit?" Hoplite asked.

“Why yes I am my astute guard. I found it fitting for the moment since our sister is sick and we are tending to her,” Luna said

“M'lady I’d follow you to Tartarus and back while you’re wearing that,” Blackthorn said with a sparkle in her eyes as she placed her hands to her mouth.

"Why thank you Blackthorn," Luna said with a giggle.

"Tell me, why are you two here? Last I checked you were on kitchen duty still," Ash said.

"Queen Faust sent us here to watch over the master bedroom and also get you anything you may need if required," Blackthorn said.

"That so, well I thank you both in your hard work and in fact there is something you could do for me. Could you go get the portable TV and bring it here should be in the video room," Ash said.

"No sweat your kinglyness, we'll be back before you know it but may I ask what you intend to watch?" Blackthorn asked.

"Game of Thrones," Ash said.

"Aw no fair," Blackthorn whined.

"Tell ya what if your quick and can also grab some snacks you can join us," Ash said.

"Ash your the king, I will follow you forever," Blackthorn said before she grabbed a still staring at Luna Hoplite and dragged him away.

"Those two are so cute together," Luna said as she walked past me.

"Yeah I see potential...Ah fuck, I've been around Cadence and Aphrodite for too long," Ash said as he slapped himself in the head before going back inside.

Next Chapter: Chapter 35 The Journey South and Memories Of The Fallen King Estimated time remaining: 20 Hours, 5 Minutes